“I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality. This is why right temporarily defeated is stronger than evil triumphant,” so alluded Martin Luther King Jr. To Dele Giwa, “No evil deed can go unpunished. Any evil done by man to man will be redressed, if not now, then certainly later, if not by man, then certainly by God, for the victory of evil over good can only be temporary.” Let’s reflect on any victory of evil over good as being only temporary.
Have you been deprived of what was rightfully yours? Are you tempted to subscribe to evil because it seems evil is triumphing over good? Does it seem as if your good is of no significance? As much as evil seems to speak louder than good, appears more recognized and seems to have more disciples, the fact is that evil is evil and good is good. As Idowu Koyenikan declared, “There is no denying that there is evil in this world but the light will always conquer the darkness.” No amount of people subscribing to evil can make evil superior to good. In Mahatma Gandhi’s words, “When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall. Think of it – always.” Unfortunately, some people’s perception of evil depends on the person, tribe, party or religion involved. While such people may justify evil, the reality, as Martin Luther King Jr. captured, is that “If we are to have peace on earth, our loyalties must become ecumenical rather than sectional. Our loyalties must transcend our race, our tribe, our class and our nation; and this means we must develop a world perspective.”
So, recognize that no matter how strong evil appears to be, no matter how trendy it seems, the supremacy of evil over good can only be temporary. Know that ultimately good will triumph over evil because even the evil doer will ultimately become a victim of his or her evil. In the midst of evil, reject the temptation to look the other way even if you feel it doesn’t concern you. The reality about life is that what you think does not concern you actually concerns you. In Martin Luther King Jr.’s words, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” As Albert Einstein noted, “The world is not threatened by evil people, but by those who allow evil to take place.” Don’t fall into the temptation of exchanging evil for evil. As Luther King Jr. said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”
As you step out, let the words of an anonymous writer echo in your head: “In a world full of people who couldn’t care less, be someone who cares more.” Don’t forget Edmund Burke’s words: “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” So do something.
Dr. (Engr.) Esang Esitikot is a chemical engineer, an HSE professional, a public affairs analyst, marriage counsellor, youth mentor and volunteer lecturer at the Institute of Health, Safety, Security and Environment, University of Uyo. He works for an international oil company and can be contacted via 08035103559 (Whatsapp only).
